Choosing the Right Agency: What to Ask Before You Decide
Finding the right agency for you and your loved one is one of the most important decisions you can make. While many agencies offer similar services on the surface, it's what happens behind the scenes—and how your loved one is supported every day—that truly matters.
As you explore your options, here are some questions you should be asking. These questions are designed to help you uncover the quality, values, and commitment of any agency you're considering
🧩 How are Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) matched with individuals?
At Joieful Connections, we go beyond availability—we match DSPs based on proximity, experience, interests, skills, and personality.
Ask:
- How does your agency go about pairing individuals with their DSPs?
- What factors do you consider when matching a DSP with someone receiving support?
- Can you walk me through your process for finding the right DSP for my loved one?
🚀 How quickly can support begin once we choose an agency?
We’ve streamlined our onboarding process so most of our DSPs are ready to start in 5–7 business days.
Ask:
- What is your average timeline for onboarding a new DSP?
- How quickly can services start once we’ve made a decision?
Choosing the Right Agency: What to Ask Before You Decide
💼 What benefits do you offer your DSPs—and how does that impact care?
Joieful offers competitive pay, full benefits, 401k matching, paid training (at full rate), mental health PTO, No Fault PTO, Tuition Reimbursement, and more.
(Full list of benefits in Career Connections)
Ask:
- What benefits do your DSPs receive?
- How do you minimize turnover in support staff?
- What is your annual turnover conversion?
🎉 What opportunities do you provide for connection and inclusion?
Our Inclusion Connections program offers monthly events where individuals can have fun, build friendships, and be part of the community.
Ask:
- What social or inclusive opportunities do you provide for individuals you serve?
- How do you support community integration?
🧠 How do you promote emotional, physical, and mental well-being?
Joieful offers Activity Kits, “Pay for You to Play” activity reimbursement, and mental health PTO—because well-being matters for everyone.
Ask:
- Do you provide support or resources to encourage healthy lifestyles?
- Are there programs that support mental health or stress relief for individuals and families?
Choosing the Right Agency: What to Ask Before You Decide
🛠️ How do you ensure safety, training, and ongoing oversight?
Every DSP receives paid training at their full hourly rate, not a reduced one. We provide consistent oversight, coaching, and compliance monitoring.
Ask:
- Is training paid at full wage or a lower training rate?
- How do you ensure ongoing quality and safety in service delivery?
- How do you create action plans, and is your approach to action plans collaborative?
- What resources will my DSPs have at their fingertips to help guide them in ensuring safety?
- How often are DSPs evaluated?
💬 Is your team available when I need help or have questions?
At Joieful, we don’t just say we care—we show up. Our designated Care Coordinators are responsive, our processes are transparent, and our relationships are personal.
Ask:
- Will I have a dedicated contact for questions or concerns?
- How quickly do your coordinators respond when support is needed?
💬 Can I utilize my respite care hours when needed?
At Joieful Connections, we provide respite care to support families and give them the time they need for self-care, while ensuring their loved ones receive the best care.
Ask:
- How does your agency incorporate respite care into your services?
- Can we use our respite care hours when needed, and how does that process work?
🌟 What makes your agency different?
At Joieful Connections, everything we do is rooted in meaningful relationships, personalized support, and the belief that every individual deserves choice, dignity, and opportunity.
Before choosing an agency, make sure you’re not just getting services—make sure you’re getting a partner.